Taiwanese superstar Ken Chu, who starred in Alix’s film “Batanes,” has agreed to co-produce the director’s next movie, which is about the plight of Filipino soldiers assigned in the Spratly Islands.

“We were in Batanes when I talked to Ken about the concept. He got back to me recently and said he has convinced other Chinese producers to invest in the new film,” Alix told Inquirer Entertainment on Tuesday.

The film, titled “Kalayaan,” will star Lao-Australian actor Ananda Everingham in the lead role. He appeared in the 2004 horror film, “Shutter.”

“Kalayaan” also features Filipino actors Joem Bascon and Arnold Reyes.

“We are currently in the process of securing permits. We hope to start filming soon,” said Alix.